FARMER RUNS AMOK

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 7 February 1928, Page 5

FARMER RUNS AMOK

SENSATIONAL AFFAIR AT KIRWEE

HOUSE, OUTBUILDINGS AND STACKS FIRED SON FOUND DROWNED IN WATER RACE (United Press Association) CHRISTCHURCH, This Day. A sensational affair occurred at Kirwee, 30 miles from Christchurch, last night, when John Duncan, a farmer well known in the district, ran amok. On his return from the city to his home he discharged his employees, burned his ■house and outbuildings,, seven stacks >.f oaten hay and five of oat'sheaves, and his motor car. After this ho disappeared, taking his two-year-old son with hjm. He was found again at 8.30 near the remains of his farm buildings with a deep gash in his arm, and was immediately arrested and brought to Christchurch.

The child was found drowne"9 in a water race some distance from the buildings at about 9 o'clock. There were no marks of violence on the body. Duncan was admitted to the hospital. Duncan went to Christchurch yesterday to attend the Magistrate's .Court where on the. application of his' wife, who left him three, months ago, separation, maintenance, and guardianship orders were made against him, maintenance being fixed at £3 weekly for his wife and two children.

Returning to his farm, which was. four miles from Kirwee. Duncan said: "I lost my case to-day. I'm getting out of this to-night." He then paid off his housekeeper, who left afc once, and also three or four men employed in harvesting. .

Shortly smoke was seen issuing from the farm buildings. Nothing was saved.

The" damage is estimated to be at least £2OOO.

■lt is understood at present that no charge is being preferred against Duncan.